Finding Fassbender

Lydia Larson's play works best when its understated

'I'm 31 years old and I've never been more than 20 miles on my own', says Eve, weighing up the offer of a promotion in London. The call centre employee has just spoken at her aunt's funeral, and consequently she imagines her own passing and the tributes paid to her after that hypothetical death. One question lingers – did she ever leave her hometown?

Eve's character is written and played with distinction by Lydia Larson. She's reluctant to up sticks and leave behind her friendships, family unit and long-term relationship - even if only for the short-term. Her cat Steve Bull (named after the Wolverhampton Wanderers legend) weighs heavily on her mind too. Hearing a pet described in a drunken Black Country drawl as a 'magnificent player and a top bloke' is a delightful touch.

Finding Fassbender is a compelling meditation on community and the importance of a family unit. While Eve is initially impressed by the bright lights of the big city (and the size of the office toaster), she very quickly realises the grass isn't always greener. Larson's portrayal of isolation is familiar yet constructed well. The second half of the story follows the pursuit of the German-born, Irish actor, and while Eve's adventures through flower markets, hip-hop dance classes and heavy metal gigs provide plenty of laughs and drive the narrative forward with purpose, it's the understated stuff that leaves a mark.

Lydia Larson
Eve's leaving Wolverhampton to work in the big smoke because it's something you should do. But the capital's charm quickly wears off and Eve decides to pack her bags and head home to her boyfriend Rich and cat, Steve Bull. Until she receives a letter addressed to a famous film actor… One woman's…